Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church answers why it isn't open as a shelter for Harvey flooding victims

Updated 7:48 pm, Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photo: Lakewood Church

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Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photo: Lakewood Church

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Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photo: Lakewood Church

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Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photos provided to Chron.com show Lakewood on the brink of flooding following heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harvey this past weekend.

Photo: Lakewood Church

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People are asking Lakewood Church to open its door for victims of Tropical Storm Harvey. It's currently unknown if the church has damaged or flooded by the storm. Keep going through the gallery to see the dramatic photos of Harvey in and around the Houston area. less

People are asking Lakewood Church to open its door for victims of Tropical Storm Harvey. It's currently unknown if the church has damaged or flooded by the storm. Keep going through the gallery to see the ... more

Photo: Eric Kayne, Staff

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People and rescue boats line Tidwell at the east Sam Houston Tollway as rescues continue from flooding following Hurricane Harvey Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, in Houston.

People and rescue boats line Tidwell at the east Sam Houston Tollway as rescues continue from flooding following Hurricane Harvey Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle

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Ron Black walks down a flooded street to get to his house after Tropical Storm Harvey Friday, Sept. 1, 2017 in Sienna Plantation.

Ron Black walks down a flooded street to get to his house after Tropical Storm Harvey Friday, Sept. 1, 2017 in Sienna Plantation.

SPCA employee Lucky Louden loads a cat into a crate as employees and volunteers of the Houston SPCA load up more than 100 adoptable dogs and cats into a truck with the help of the Austin Humane Society and others, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Houston, to be sent to Atlanta, to make room for an onslaught of animal Tropical Storm Harvey victims. less

SPCA employee Lucky Louden loads a cat into a crate as employees and volunteers of the Houston SPCA load up more than 100 adoptable dogs and cats into a truck with the help of the Austin Humane Society and ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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Employees and volunteers of the Houston SPCA load up more than 100 adoptable dogs and cats into a truck with the help of the Austin Humane Society and others, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Houston, to be sent to Atlanta, to make room for an onslaught of animal Tropical Storm Harvey victims. less

Employees and volunteers of the Houston SPCA load up more than 100 adoptable dogs and cats into a truck with the help of the Austin Humane Society and others, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Houston, to be sent to ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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Mackenzie Breeding, 9, of Tomball carries a bag of clothing past pews filled with diapers, as volunteers organize donations at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 15415 N. Eldridge, Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Cypress. More than 120 people were temporarily sheltered at the church during flooding. There is an outpouring of donations after Hurricane Harvey. less

Frances Breaux wipes tears from her face after talking to media about her close friends and neighbors Leo and Lajayne Opelia, both in their 70s, whom she hasn't being able to reach since last night, before the organic peroxides inside the Arkema chemical plant exploded Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Crosby, Texas. The Opelias were mandatorily evacuated from their homes by officials but they decided to sneak back in their home. less

Frances Breaux wipes tears from her face after talking to media about her close friends and neighbors Leo and Lajayne Opelia, both in their 70s, whom she hasn't being able to reach since last night, before the ... more

Photo: Godofredo A. Vasquez, Houston Chronicle

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Harris County Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Bob Royall , center, and Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez talk to media about the explosion of organic peroxides at th Arkema chemical plant during a press conference outside the Crosby Fire Department Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017, in Crosby, Texas. Fifteen Harris County Sheriff Office deputies that first responded to the fire at the plant were sent to the hospital eight have been released. less

Harris County Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Bob Royall , center, and Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez talk to media about the explosion of organic peroxides at th Arkema chemical plant during a press conference ... more

Photo: Godofredo A. Vasquez, Houston Chronicle

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Alen Pogue drags a kayak carrying three pet snakes, leopard gecko, and firearms after returning from his flooded home on Forrest Hollow Drive Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Baytown, Texas.

Alen Pogue drags a kayak carrying three pet snakes, leopard gecko, and firearms after returning from his flooded home on Forrest Hollow Drive Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Baytown, Texas.

Photo: Godofredo A. Vasquez, Houston Chronicle

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Floodwaters from the Addicks Reservoir inundate a neighborhood off N. Eldridge Parkway in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Floodwaters from the Addicks Reservoir inundate a neighborhood off N. Eldridge Parkway in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Columbia Lakes resident Kyle Butler throws sandbags into a truck bed to help shored up wall from overflowing into their subdivision Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in West Columbia.

Columbia Lakes resident Kyle Butler throws sandbags into a truck bed to help shored up wall from overflowing into their subdivision Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in West Columbia.

Photo: Steve Gonzales, Houston Chronicle

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Floodwaters fill the road running through the Lakes On Eldridge North subdivision in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Floodwaters fill the road running through the Lakes On Eldridge North subdivision in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Saltwater Salvage diver Justin Hendrickson prepares to dive near the Columbia Lakes subdivision Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in West Columbia. Hendrickson was walked to the dive spot by fellow diver Dave Oltroge before he dove to shut a levee gate value to prevent more flooding to the neighborhood. less

Waters levels of Buffalo Bayou have receded near downtown in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Waters levels of Buffalo Bayou have receded near downtown in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Floodwaters fill the road running through the Lakes On Eldridge North subdivision in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Floodwaters fill the road running through the Lakes On Eldridge North subdivision in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Shaqualia Watkins comforts her one-month-old daughter, Kamarii, as she and other evacuees visit the area of NRG Center, where the goods, toys, snacks and clothing where being distributed for the 2500 people sheltering there, who were affected by Tropical Storm Harvey, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. less

Shaqualia Watkins comforts her one-month-old daughter, Kamarii, as she and other evacuees visit the area of NRG Center, where the goods, toys, snacks and clothing where being distributed for the 2500 people ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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The Houston Texans gathered their luggage after getting off buses at NRG Stadium, after traveling from Dallas, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. Houston flew last week to New Orleans, then to the Dallas area, and was originally scheduled to play the Cowboys at NRG Stadium, but destruction by Hurricane Harvey and flooding from Tropical Storm Harvey. Texans were going to play the game Thursday in Dallas, but the NFL cancelled that game. less

The Houston Texans gathered their luggage after getting off buses at NRG Stadium, after traveling from Dallas, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. Houston flew last week to New Orleans, then to the Dallas ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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Houston Texans J.J. Watt talks on the phone after he and the team got off buses at NRG Stadium, after traveling from Dallas, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. Houston flew last week to New Orleans, then to the Dallas area, and was originally scheduled to play the Cowboys at NRG Stadium, but destruction by Hurricane Harvey and flooding from Tropical Storm Harvey. Texans were going to play the game Thursday in Dallas, but the NFL cancelled that game. less

Houston Texans J.J. Watt talks on the phone after he and the team got off buses at NRG Stadium, after traveling from Dallas, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. Houston flew last week to New Orleans, then to ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Rick Johnson pauses to listen for people's voices as they search for people in a neighborhood inundated by water from the Addicks Reservoir, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Rick Johnson pauses to listen for people's voices as they search for people in a neighborhood inundated by water from the Addicks Reservoir, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle

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Tiffany Carroll waits anxiously by the entrance to her neighborhood, where water from the Addicks Reservoir has risen quickly, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Tiffany Carroll waits anxiously by the entrance to her neighborhood, where water from the Addicks Reservoir has risen quickly, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle

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Mike Stamps in his home in the Kingwood Greens Subdivision flooded from the San Jacinto River due to Tropical Storm Harvey, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Kingwood. Stamps was there to retrieve his two cats , who had to be left behind, as he was evacuated on a jet ski Tuesday. less

Mike Stamps in his home in the Kingwood Greens Subdivision flooded from the San Jacinto River due to Tropical Storm Harvey, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Kingwood. Stamps was there to retrieve his two cats , ... more

Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

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Quinisha Runnels holds her cousin, Mimi Runnels, 2, on a cot at the George R. Brown Convention Center where nearly 10,000 people are taking shelter after Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston. less

Quinisha Runnels holds her cousin, Mimi Runnels, 2, on a cot at the George R. Brown Convention Center where nearly 10,000 people are taking shelter after Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Shiann Barker holds her nephew, Brayln Matthews Sims Jr., 1, between cots at the George R. Brown Convention Center where nearly 10,000 people are taking shelter after Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston. They have ben at the shelter since Sunday after they evacuated from the Clayton Homes neighborhood. less

Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as the water went over the bridge. less

Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as the water went over the bridge. less

Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as the water went over the bridge. less

Family members react as a van is pulled out of the Greens Bayou with the bodies of six family members on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Houston. The van was carried into the bayou during Tropical Storm Harvey as ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Volunteer Paige Atkinson sorts donated clothing at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Volunteer Paige Atkinson sorts donated clothing at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Robert Spooner, a US Customs and Border patrol officer, from Tomball, center, and other volunteers work to prepare boats to help people in the Lakewood area along Cypresswood Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Houston. Much of the Houston area was flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. less

Robert Spooner, a US Customs and Border patrol officer, from Tomball, center, and other volunteers work to prepare boats to help people in the Lakewood area along Cypresswood Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle

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Susan Henney tosses wet carpet as she helps her neighbors clean up from flooding in the Lakewood Forest subdivision Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Houston. Much of the Houston area was flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. less

Susan Henney tosses wet carpet as she helps her neighbors clean up from flooding in the Lakewood Forest subdivision Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Houston. Much of the Houston area was flooded in the aftermath ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle

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Danny Hannon carries his dry cowboy boots in his backpack as he goes to check his home in the Lakewood Crossing subdivision off Cypresswood Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Houston. He had almost two feet of water the night before inside his home. Much of the Houston area was flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. less

Danny Hannon carries his dry cowboy boots in his backpack as he goes to check his home in the Lakewood Crossing subdivision off Cypresswood Wednesday, August 30, 2017 in Houston. He had almost two feet of water ... more

Photo: Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle

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People line up to volunteer at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

People line up to volunteer at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Kenny Licona, left, cleans out his flooded out home in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Spring, Texas.

Kenny Licona, left, cleans out his flooded out home in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Spring, Texas.

Volunteers man a food and water line at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Volunteers man a food and water line at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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A construction crew cleans out Kenny Licona's flooded out home in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Spring, Texas.

A construction crew cleans out Kenny Licona's flooded out home in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in Spring, Texas.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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People line up to volunteer at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

People line up to volunteer at NRG Center, which opened its doors to a capacity of 10,000 evacuees in the wake of Tropical Storm Harvey Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Johnny Colunga feeds his pet monkey "Prince" as they take refuge in the Max Bowl, which was converted to a shelter for those displaced by flooding in Port Arthur. Photo taken Wednesday, August 30, 2017 Kim Brent/The Enterprise less

Johnny Colunga feeds his pet monkey "Prince" as they take refuge in the Max Bowl, which was converted to a shelter for those displaced by flooding in Port Arthur. Photo taken Wednesday, August 30, 2017 Kim ... more

Photo: Kim Brent, Beaumont Enterprise

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A neighborhood is inundated by floodwaters from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Spring.

A neighborhood is inundated by floodwaters from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Spring.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Kathryn Loder sorts donated clothing at George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017.

Kathryn Loder sorts donated clothing at George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017.

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Nathan Gamez, 2, is pulled by his dad, Carlos Herrara after picking up supplies from the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017. less

Nathan Gamez, 2, is pulled by his dad, Carlos Herrara after picking up supplies from the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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A boat lets off people being evacuated from floodwaters left by Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

A boat lets off people being evacuated from floodwaters left by Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Chris Gutierrez, second from right, helps his grandmother, Edelmira Gutierrez, down the stairs of their flooded house and into a waiting fire department truck as Addicks Reservoir surpasses capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston. less

Chris Gutierrez, second from right, helps his grandmother, Edelmira Gutierrez, down the stairs of their flooded house and into a waiting fire department truck as Addicks Reservoir surpasses capacity due to near ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Volunteer rescuers evacuate people from the Georgetown Colony neighborhood on a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck, which was used as a prop in the latest Planet of the Apes movie, as Addicks Reservoir surpasses capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston. less

Volunteer rescuers evacuate people from the Georgetown Colony neighborhood on a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck, which was used as a prop in the latest Planet of the Apes movie, as Addicks Reservoir ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Members of the National Guard help evacuees from the Georgetown Colony neighborhood out of a fire department vehicle as Addicks Reservoir surpasses capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston. less

Members of the National Guard help evacuees from the Georgetown Colony neighborhood out of a fire department vehicle as Addicks Reservoir surpasses capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey ... more

Volunteers bring in donations into Lakewood Church now that the church has turned into a shelter for the Tropical Storm Harvey evacuees, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. ( Marie D. De Jesus / Houston Chronicle ) less

Volunteers bring in donations into Lakewood Church now that the church has turned into a shelter for the Tropical Storm Harvey evacuees, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. ( Marie D. De Jesus / Houston ... more

Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Houston Chronicle

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Cilla Padron, from Corpus Christi, takes a nap in the lobby of the SpringHill Suites hotel Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Rosenberg, Texas. Padron and her friends worked most of the previous day helping rescue people from flooded neighborhoods. less

Cilla Padron, from Corpus Christi, takes a nap in the lobby of the SpringHill Suites hotel Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Rosenberg, Texas. Padron and her friends worked most of the previous day helping rescue ... more

Photo: Godofredo A. Vasquez, Houston Chronicle

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Armando Argueta, who performs as "Kapuchino," performs a magic trick for children at a Red Cross shelter at W. W. Thorne Stadium, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. "We wanted to let the children forget what had happened," his wife Betty said. less

Armando Argueta, who performs as "Kapuchino," performs a magic trick for children at a Red Cross shelter at W. W. Thorne Stadium, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. "We wanted to let the children forget what ... more

A high water warning sign on Addicks Satsuma Road is covered by flood waters as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

A high water warning sign on Addicks Satsuma Road is covered by flood waters as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Stephanie Vu, left, reacts after being rescued after falling in deep water as she evacuates with her parents from the Savannah Estates neighborhood as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston. less

Stephanie Vu, left, reacts after being rescued after falling in deep water as she evacuates with her parents from the Savannah Estates neighborhood as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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A flares at Shell is shown along with other complexes along 146 Tuesday, August 29, 2017 in Deer Park. Several plants shut down due to Hurricane Harvey.

A flares at Shell is shown along with other complexes along 146 Tuesday, August 29, 2017 in Deer Park. Several plants shut down due to Hurricane Harvey.

Photo: Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle

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Boirs Salazar paddles a surfing board to play in flood water with his brother and a friend at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and 15th Street on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, in Galveston.

Boirs Salazar paddles a surfing board to play in flood water with his brother and a friend at the intersection of Broadway Avenue and 15th Street on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, in Galveston.

Photo: Yi-Chin Lee, Houston Chronicle

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Grant Braswell, from front, Shayne Hofstetter and John Hall have a good time tubing in flood water at the intersection of Moody Avenue and Postofdice Street on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, in Galveston. Some parts of the downtown section had flood water more than waist-deep. less

Grant Braswell, from front, Shayne Hofstetter and John Hall have a good time tubing in flood water at the intersection of Moody Avenue and Postofdice Street on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, in Galveston. Some parts ... more

Photo: Yi-Chin Lee, Houston Chronicle

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People wade through chest deep water down Pine Cliff Drive as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

People wade through chest deep water down Pine Cliff Drive as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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People wade through chest deep water down Pine Cliff Drive as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

People wade through chest deep water down Pine Cliff Drive as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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A woman carries her dogs as she is evacuated from the Twin Lakes neighborhood with her family as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston. less

A woman carries her dogs as she is evacuated from the Twin Lakes neighborhood with her family as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity due to near constant rain from Tropical Storm Harvey Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in ... more

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Residents of the Cinco Ranch and Kelliwood areas of Ft. Bend and Harris Counties evacuate from the west side of the Barker Reservoir along Westheimer Parkway in Katy, TX on August 29, 2017.

Residents of the Cinco Ranch and Kelliwood areas of Ft. Bend and Harris Counties evacuate from the west side of the Barker Reservoir along Westheimer Parkway in Katy, TX on August 29, 2017.

Photo: Craig Moseley, Houston Chronicle

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A rescuer moves Paulina Tamirano, 92, from a boat to a truck bed as people evacuate from the Savannah Estates neighborhood as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

A rescuer moves Paulina Tamirano, 92, from a boat to a truck bed as people evacuate from the Savannah Estates neighborhood as Addicks Reservoir nears capacity Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

Photo: Michael Ciaglo, Houston Chronicle

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Fluids from a submerged vehicle rise to the surface at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in Houston. Sgt. Steve Perez, 56, reportedly drowned in his patrol car at the intersection while on his way to work. He was a 30-year veteran of the HPD. less

Fluids from a submerged vehicle rise to the surface at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in ... more

Photo: Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle

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Maria Dardon pauses at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in Houston. Sgt. Steve Perez, 56, reportedly drowned in his patrol car at the intersection while on his way to work. He was a 30-year veteran of the HPD. less

Maria Dardon pauses at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in Houston. Sgt. Steve Perez, 56, ... more

Photo: Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle

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A submerged vehicle is seen at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in Houston. An HPD officer reportedly drowned in his patrol car at the intersection while on his way to work. less

A submerged vehicle is seen at the intersection of the Hardy Toll Road and the Sam Houston Tollway, as heavy rains continue from Tropical Storm Harvey, Tuesday August 29, 2017, in Houston. An HPD officer ... more

Photo: Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle

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People displaced by Tropical Storm Harvey take shelter in the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017.

People displaced by Tropical Storm Harvey take shelter in the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017.

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Nathan Gamez, 2, is pulled by his dad, Carlos Herrara after picking up supplies from the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017. less

Nathan Gamez, 2, is pulled by his dad, Carlos Herrara after picking up supplies from the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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Don and Peg Sauter celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on August 22. The two have moved from their assisted living home to the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches its way through the area on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017. less

Don and Peg Sauter celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on August 22. The two have moved from their assisted living home to the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey inches ... more

Photo: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

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A volunteer sorts the donations delivered to Lakewood Church now that the church has turned into a shelter for the Tropical Storm Harvey evacuees, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. ( Marie D. De Jesus / Houston Chronicle ) less

A volunteer sorts the donations delivered to Lakewood Church now that the church has turned into a shelter for the Tropical Storm Harvey evacuees, Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston. ( Marie D. De Jesus / ... more

Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Staff

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Flood victims are evacuated by boat from their neighborhood near the Addicks Reservoir as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Flood victims are evacuated by boat from their neighborhood near the Addicks Reservoir as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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A line of airplanes are surrounded by floodwaters from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

A line of airplanes are surrounded by floodwaters from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Flood victims are evacuated by boat from their neighborhood near the Addicks Reservoir as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Flood victims are evacuated by boat from their neighborhood near the Addicks Reservoir as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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Rescue vehicles drive through a neighborhood off Cypress Creek as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Rescue vehicles drive through a neighborhood off Cypress Creek as floodwaters rise from Tropical Storm Harvey on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Houston.

Photo: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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A car sits stranded in high water at Studemont Drive and Allen Parkway as Buffalo Bayou overflows its banks as Tropical Storm Harvey continues to dump rain across the region Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

A car sits stranded in high water at Studemont Drive and Allen Parkway as Buffalo Bayou overflows its banks as Tropical Storm Harvey continues to dump rain across the region Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 in Houston.

Sid Abdilahi, 31, gives his two-year-old niece, Bamas, a piggyback ride inside the Spring Hill Suites hotel Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Rosenberg, Texas. "I'm just trying to keep my family's spirits up," said Abdilahi. "She's my world," he added. Abdilahi and his family, six total, were evacuated from their Richmond home by the Fort Bend Fire Department Monday morning and were first taken to B.F. Terry High School, one of the local shelters. With his mom, who's 70, Abdilahi opted for looking for a close by hotel that still had open rooms. less

Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church answers why it isn't open as a shelter for Harvey flooding victims

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UPDATE: As of noon Tuesday, Lakewood has formally opened its doors to people seeking shelter from Tropical Storm Harvey. See the story here.

Following claims from around the internet that Lakewood Church, and its leader, Joel Osteen, weren't doing anything for the victims of Tropical Storm Harvey, the organization is speaking out Monday night to try and set the record straight.

"It's not our unwillingness, it's just practicality. It's been a safety issue for us," Iloff said, adding that Harvey's heavy rainfall almost spilled over Lakewood's floodgate this past weekend. "Lakewood Church has a heart for this city."

Osteen echoed Iloff's comment Tuesday morning, claiming Lakewood never closed its doors and "will continue to be a distribution center for those in need" and is "prepared to house people once shelters reach capacity," according to the Associated Press.

Later Tuesday morning, Lakewood said it is now "receiving people who need shelter. We are also coordinating with the city as a collection site for distribution," it said on Twitter.

The church will be open Tuesday at noon to collect baby food, baby formula, baby diapers, and adult diapers on behalf of the city. Lakewood was in communication with the city today and said it would shelter Harvey victims once other shelters are full, Iloff said.

As of noon Tuesday, Lakewood has formally opened its doors to people seeking shelter from Harvey.

A photo appearing to show air mattresses lined up inside Lakewood went viral Monday night. It was provided to writer and Army veteran Charles Clymer by someone working for Lakewood, Cylmer told Chron.com.

Iloff could not confirm Monday night if the mattresses belonged to the church but said Lakewood has already began preparing to host people displaced by Harvey.

On Sunday evening, Lakewood Church, Joel and Victoria Osteen all tweeted to raise money toward Samaritan's Purse, an organization that raises funds to help communities in natural disasters like Harvey, but no word on whether they would open the church's doors.

On the Lakewood Church website, a post was shared to promote the fundraising effort, saying in part:

"Over the last couple of days, as the enormity of this storm was being realized, we have been working to organize relief efforts for the Houston area with our friend Franklin Graham and the disaster relief organization that he oversees, Samaritan's Purse. Samaritan's Purse has been, since its inception, organized to respond to situations just like Hurricane Harvey, and we are grateful to be able to partner with them to provide assistance to the Houston area."